Leeds favourite, Blackhouse, has announced it is set to unveil an evolution of its popular city centre restaurant in 2026.
If you're a Leeds foodie, then there's no doubt that you'll have visited Blackhouse.
The iconic steakhouse on East Parade is known for it striking interiors, fabulous food and sexy atmosphere.
It's been serving the people of Leeds for a whopping 18 years, and to celebrate the achievement they're having a refresh.
The new direction will introduce a refreshed food, drink and social offering that stays true to the qualities that have made it one of Leeds’ most enduring dining destinations.
Blackhouse will continue to serve exceptional steaks, while expanding its culinary offer with a vibrant new menu shaped around local produce and seasonality.
Guests can expect a renewed focus on seasonal dishes, with a menu that evolves every six-eight weeks with elevated sharing dishes that encourage a more social dining style.
Image: Supplied
The Blackhouse bar will offer a broader choice wines by the glass utilising Coravin technology, an expanded range of draught beers and a new curated list of affordable cocktails making it a new night out destination.
There will also be a new all day bar food menu served from 12 ‘til close which includes a new signature “branded” burger.
Blackhouse GASTROBAR General Manager Matt McGuinness said: “What we’re unveiling in January is very much an evolution, not a revolution. Everything our guests love about Blackhouse will remain at the heart of what we do with a relaxed offer that keeps the warm, unmistakable Blackhouse charm that people return for time and again.
“As we prepare to celebrate 18 incredible years in Leeds, this is the last chance to dine the classic Blackhouse menu before we begin a bold new chapter and we’re very excited to share the next version of Blackhouse with the city.”
The new concept will launch on Friday 9 January, and you can book your table here.
To celebrate the launch, they'll be offering 50% off dining throughout January.
A popular restaurant chain has closed permanently in Leeds city centre.
Popular pizzeria Franco Manca has closed its Leeds restaurant.
The chain was famed for its relaxed atmosphere, quick service and affordable sourdough Neapolitan pizzas that were on offer for as little as a fiver.
The chain occupied the site on the outskirts of Trinity Shopping Centre on Trinity Street, next door to Itsu and overlooking the back entrance of Marks and Spencer.
Hoardings have now gone up, signifying the site is now empty and Franco Manca has permanently closed.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
This can also be seen on Google when searching for the restaurant branch.
It was announced earlier this year that a number of Franco Manca's restaurants would be closing across the country.
This was down to a reconstructing plan approved by creditors for the chain. The brand said it had been knocked by “disproportionately high” UK taxes and a lack of business rates relief for hospitality.
Marcel Khan, chief executive of parent firm Fulham Shore, said at the time: “We are grateful for the support shown by our creditors today.
“Franco Manca is a fantastic brand with a strong heritage and loyal customer base. With this agreement in place, we will put the business back on a firm footing and press ahead with strengthening our customer offer and performance.”
The Leeds brand was not included in the initial list of restaurant closing, but it seems further closures were made.
Miami-inspired Leeds bodega to open second site in Horsforth following huge success of first
Clementine Hall
A sandwich shop in Leeds is expanding to the suburbs.
Famed for it’s toasted Cuban sandwiches, stacked subs and loaded breakfast bagels - Alfonsos Deli has made a name for itself for serving some of the best sandwiches around the city.
Such a good reputation in fact, that they’ve just announced a second location over in the leafy suburb of Horsforth. Get in.
Currently, you'll find Alfonso's in the Grand Arcade where their light-filled and airy space is slinging out sandwiches non-stop until sell-out.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
It's not just sandwiches, though. They're also serving up fantastic Cuban coffee, beer and even Cuban cigars.
Basically, it's everything you'd expect to find in a deli in Miami.
The team shared the news of the expansion on social media, confirming that a brand-new Horsforth site is on the way.
While an official opening date is yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked plenty of excitement among loyal customers, many of whom have been calling for a second location since the deli first opened.
Alfonso's has built a devoted following in Leeds, with its signature Cubano sandwich becoming a firm favourite, while its breakfast bagels draw queues of hungover punters through the doors.
The move to Horsforth marks the next chapter for the independent business, bringing its popular menu to a whole new neighbourhood. And they're in fantastic company too, in a suburb that is flourishing with independent local businesses.
If the success of the Grand Arcade site is anything to go by, the new deli is likely to be just as busy from day one. More details, including an opening date and the full menu, are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Good luck to the team, we can't wait to check it out.
Clementine Hall -
30th December 2025 
